Gemotions

The harsh fluorescent lights of the dorm room seemed to buzz in his ears as Ethan entered. His journal was out of place. A cold knot formed in his chest. A feeling, almost physical, took root.

His roommate, Kevin, was engrossed in a video game, oblivious. Ethan's gaze narrowed, his jaw clenched. He felt the intense desire to shout, to confront, to demand the return of his privacy. He wanted to scream, to claim the things that were his.

He approached the journal, the pages feeling exposed and vulnerable. A wave of protectiveness washed over him. He felt the desperate need to keep the secrets, the words, the private thoughts safe.

Ethan took the journal and hid it in his backpack, a space that was solely his. A strange sense of satisfaction filled him. The feeling of owning everything was a strong emotion.